Reality Show Applications

Completing reality show applications is the first step in a long journey that could make you a bona fide television star.

TV addicts love reality television

The first step in moving from reality show viewer to reality show participant is to complete an application. In most cases, producers have potential contestants fill out a written application to obtain basic information. Other shows require wannabe participants to submit a short video which showcases their talents or illustrates what characteristics they have that will enhance the series. Casting directors are looking for performers who will draw in viewers, so they usually don’t want boring.

If your written or video application proves that you have star potential, you will be asked to appear for a face-to-face interview with show producers. Having the opportunity to see a person live allows producers to get a better sense of an applicant. Before you are given the green light to appear on national TV, casting directors want to see how you move, react to questions, or handle different situations. All of these things can make or break your shot at becoming the next reality TV star.

If you are applying for a spot on talent-based reality TV shows -such as "American Idol" or "So You Think You Can Dance"- the application process is slightly different. In most cases you will be required to apply in person. Talent competitions host live auditions where tens of thousands of applicants perform in front of judges who then decide whether or not you have what it takes to move on in the competition.

It is virtually impossible to list the exact criteria that casting directors and producers from different shows are looking for in potential contestants. However, there are a few tips you can follow to increase your chances of landing a spot on a reality TV series.

Prospective reality TV show contestants face stiff competition. You are competing with millions of people who will do everything and anything to get their 15 minutes of fame. To increase your odds of being selected for a realty television show, it pays to do research. Don’t apply to a show you know nothing about. Rather, become an educated fan of the show in which you hope to appear. If you're smart and witty, but can't sing, dance or cook to save your life, then don't apply to a talent-based competition. Rather, stick with shows that require outsmarting other contestants or ones that focus on finding the right mate. Careful preparation will pay big dividends in the end.

Nothing will get you eliminated from a reality show application process quicker than ignoring directions. If a show requires submitting a five minute audition tape and you send in a 20 minute highlight reel, don't be surprised if you are eliminated early in the process. Likewise, if you 35 years old and show producers are looking to cast 18 to 24 year olds, you can be assured your application will end up in the reject pile.

Reviewing the habits of current reality TV cast members is a good idea. However, producers are not looking for carbon copies of popular contestants. Don't fall into the trap of pretending to be someone you aren’t. Casting directors are looking for authentic individuals. They don't want to hire posers for their cast. Pretending to be someone you're not presents several problems, the least of which is potentially making yourself look like a fool. Reality TV producers are looking for people with genuine personalities who will provide authentic reactions to varying situations. Bottom line: be yourself when you audition. After all, it is reality TV.

Don't use an application as a means to tell your entire life story. Pick a few interesting points about yourself that you think are noteworthy or unique and that will make you stand out from the crowd. Applicants who try to impress casting directors by going on and on about their litany of achievements typically don’t go far in the application process. In addition, wannabe contestants who provide false information on their applications are subject to instant elimination and public humiliation when their lies are discovered.

Most reality TV shows provide application forms and information on their websites. However, not all reality TV shows accept applications or hold auditions year round. It’s important to visit your favorite reality TV show's website often to get the latest updates on applications and auditions.

The following reality shows generate the most applicants:

• American Idol
• America's Next Top Model
• Amazing Race
• The Bachelor
• The Biggest Loser
• Big Brother
• Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
• The Real World
• So You Think You Can Dance
• Supernanny
• Survivor
• What Not to Wear

• Kelly Osbourne Pics
• Kourtney Kardashian Pics
• Lauren Conrad Pics

• What Couples are Still Together from The Bachelor
• Rock of Love Bus
• CBS Survivor Application
• Kate Gosselin
• Jon and Kate Plus Eight

• What Not to Wear Application
• Reality Shows Open Calls
• Main Page
• The Colony TV Show
• How do I Get on a Reality Show